Although the string quartet was a rarely used form in 19th-century
Russia, Tchaikovsky and Borodin both produced superb, inventive
compositions in the genre. Tchaikovsky's String Quartet No. 1 in D,
Op. 11, is notable for its imaginative freshness and world-famous
Andante cantabile movement. His Quartet No. 2 in F, Op. 22, displays
remarkable fluency and skilled craftsmanship, while Quartet No. 3 in
F-flat Minor, Op. 30, combines austerity with deeply felt intensity and
vigor.
Borodin's two string quartets are characterized by his impeccable
craftsmanship and expert understanding and use of his instruments. The
popular String Quartet No. 2 is especially known for the luxuriant
richness of its third movement Nocturne. Now all five works are
available in this handsome, inexpensive edition. Reprinted from
authoritative scores.